Nest box size

[Iluveggers]

Hi! I currently have an open nest box big enough for 3 hens. No one is laying yet. I found a 2 box shelf in my basement. The inside of the boxes measures about 11.5 in x11.5 in and they are about 12 in deep. Would that work for additional nest box space if needed in the spring? I only have 10 hens but figure extra space won’t hurt.

 

[ExoticPetOwner]

I think that should be fine.....

 

[Ridgerunner]

Justy in case you see it, the standard recommendation on here is a minimum of 12" x 12" but that's just because people need a standard. I've used a cat litter bucket that had a measurement of 7-1/2" x 11-1/2" for a nest and the size worked fine. You won't have any problems with those nests.

 

[Iluveggers]

Awesome! I guess I’ll keep it, then! My Brahma probably won’t fit, but the other box is HUGE. Hopefully a few of the smaller girls like my Sussex & Easter Eggers will like it!

 

[ChicFil- A]

Hi! I currently have an open nest box big enough for 3 hens. No one is laying yet. I found a 2 box shelf in my basement. The inside of the boxes measures about 11.5 in x11.5 in and they are about 12 in deep. Would that work for additional nest box space if needed in the spring? I only have 10 hens but figure extra space won’t hurt.

Hi! rest assured, If you have 10 nest boxes your chicks will all want to use the same box It seems they like to follow the leader

 

[NagemTX]

Mine all currently use a medium igloo dog house, the tool bench in the garage, one of the two clay pots I intended for this in the coop and a garbage bag full of loose hay for filling said nesting places.